Ryan Day Shocked by Orlando Pace’s Retirement Announcement
In a surprising turn of events, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day expressed his shock upon learning about the retirement of Buckeye legend Orlando Pace from football-related activities. Pace, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the history of the game, announced that he would be stepping away from all professional and public football engagements, a decision that caught many off guard—including Day.
Speaking to reporters after a summer practice session, Day admitted he had no prior knowledge of Pace’s impending decision. “I was completely caught off guard when I heard the news,” he said. “Orlando has been such an integral part of the Buckeye family for decades, and his presence in the football world has been massive. He’s not just a legend here at Ohio State—he’s an icon of the sport.”
Pace, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016, built an illustrious career both at Ohio State and in the NFL, where he was a cornerstone of the St. Louis Rams’ offensive line, helping lead the “Greatest Show on Turf” to a Super Bowl victory. His dominance in college, where he was a two-time unanimous All-American and the first offensive lineman ever to be a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, cemented his status as one of the greatest ever to play the position.
While Pace has remained active in the football community, engaging in alumni events and mentoring young linemen, his announcement suggests he will be stepping away from those roles. For Day, this marks the end of an era for Ohio State football. “He’s been such a great mentor to our guys, and just having him around meant so much,” Day said. “It’s hard to imagine Buckeye football without his involvement in some capacity.”
Though Pace has yet to elaborate on his reasons for stepping away, many believe it may be a personal decision to focus on family and other ventures. His impact, however, will be felt for generations. “What he’s done for this program and the sport of football can’t be overstated,” Day added. “We’ll always honor his legacy, and I hope this isn’t the last we see of him in the football world.”
For Ohio State fans and football enthusiasts alike, Pace’s departure marks a significant moment in the sport’s history—one that even the Buckeyes’ head coach didn’t see coming.
